Carbon-Related Opportunities in Urban and Community Forestry: Perspectives of Non-Profit Organizations and Public Agencies in California, USA

Abstract Urban and community forests are increasingly acknowledged for their multiple market and non-market benefits, including their recognition as a natural climate solution in developed areas. This study examines the perspectives toward climate-induced events such as extreme weather and wildfire of non-profit organizations (NPOs) and public agencies involved in California’s urban and community forest (U&CF) management. Additionally, we explore the involvement of NPOs and public agencies in carbon-related opportunities such as carbon offset markets (COM) and the California Climate Investment Funding (CCIF) program. We collected data through a state-wide online survey of NPOs and public agencies in California in 2022–2023. Results suggest these organizations perceived drought, high heat, and wind as the most significant adverse impacts on their U&CF activities. Additionally, increased health issues among trees, higher tree mortality rates, and increased operational costs were perceived as considerable challenges to U&CF management due to extreme weather events and wildfire. NPOs and public agencies were found to have low participation in carbon-related programs but indicated a higher likelihood of participation in the future. Participation in carbon-related opportunities varied significantly by organization size. This study underscores the importance of informed decision-making in developing and advancing carbon-related policies and programs in California.